PLANT METABOLISM

Apr 13 2026SCIENCE

Discovering the Hidden Genes Behind Ginkgo’s Toxic Seeds

The seeds of Ginkgo biloba hold a nasty secret: they produce a poison called ginkgotoxin and its sugar‑bound form. Scientists wanted to know which genes make these chemicals, but the details were fuzzy. Using a step‑by‑step RNA sequencing plan, researchers collected seed samples at different grow

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May 28 2025SCIENCE

How Black Poplar Trees Fight Back Against Caterpillars

The black poplar tree, a key player in both nature and industry, has some clever tricks up its sleeves when it comes to defending itself. Researchers have been digging into how these trees respond to caterpillar attacks, focusing on more than just the leaves. They looked at the tree's wood, bark, an

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Jan 14 2025SCIENCE

How Loquats Protect Themselves with Sugar: A UV-B Defense Story

Ever wondered how plants protect themselves from sunburn? Loquats, also known as Japanese medlars, have a clever trick up their sleeves (or rather, leaves and fruits). They make special compounds called flavonol glycosides. These compounds help plants grow and defend against stress, like harsh UV-B

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